Lake Clark Bible Church
HistoryBeginnings and Early Years
Lake Clark Bible Church began with several Christian families living close together in Port Alsworth, Alaska. These families came together to worship God and study the Bible, meeting in eachothers homes. The church was officially established as a nonprofit religious corporation in the State of Alaska on October 22, 1987. According to its constitution, Lake Clark Bible Church is “a non-denominational protestant part of the universal church of Jesus Christ.” Its mission is to promote worship and service to God not only in Port Alsworth but also beyond. The foundation for this mission is rooted in various biblical passages, such as
1 Chronicles 16:10–12, 29; Ephesians 5:19–20; Philippians 4:4–7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17–18; John 4:23–24, which encourage worship, and 1 Corinthians 4:1–2, which focuses on service, with Acts 1:8 emphasizing the importance of reaching out to the wider community. In the early years, the church did not have a dedicated building. Instead, the congregation met in members’ homes. This home-based approach helped to create strong relationshipsand a close sense of fellowship within the church community. As the congregation grew, the need for a larger shared space became evident. For a time, church services were held in facilities shared with Tanalian Bible Camp. While this arrangement was beneficial, God blessed both ministries in growth and expansion and during the summer, when the camp needed the indoor spaces for its own activities, the church sometimes held services outdoors.
Teachers and Pastors
Lake Clark Bible Church has been guided by both pastors and lay leaders over the years. Notable early teachers have included Glen Alsworth, Sr., Laddy Elliott, and Lonnie Elliott, to name a few. The full-time pastors have been James Walsh and Luke Wegner. Alongside these pastors and early teachers, many other laypeople have shared, taught and delivered Sunday messages to the local church body.
Ministry in a Remote Community
Operating in the remote setting of Port Alsworth, Lake Clark Bible Church has served as an important spiritual home for year-round residents, as well as for visitors, seasonal workers, and those involved in ministry throughout the Lake Clark area. Port Alsworth is accessible only by aircraft or watercraft, which adds to the significance of the church in this community.
Throughout its history, Lake Clark Bible Church has remained committed to its mission: promoting worship and service to God in Port Alsworth and beyond, with a steadfast focus on Gospel-centered, Bible-based teaching.
A Permanent Church Home
After many years of prayer and planning, the church celebrated a significant milestone with the construction of its first permanent worship facility. Ground was broken on the new building in Port Alsworth in 2025. The project was supported by Samaritan’s Purse and realized through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers from across the United States. The church building was intentionally designed for the challenging Alaskan environment, featuring a durable concrete structure, metal exterior, and high-efficiency insulation. The completion of this facility provided the congregation with a dedicated, year-round space specifically designed for worship, teaching, and community life—a first in the church’s history.
Continuing the Mission
Today, Lake Clark Bible Church remains a multi-generational congregation committed to preaching Jesus Christ, discipling believers, and serving the community. From humble home gatherings to shared facilities and now to a permanent church home, the journey of Lake Clark Bible Church is one of perseverance, faith, and God’s provision in a remote Alaskan setting.
